Expressing a wish or a regret

Use of I wsh / if only:

There are three distinct types of I wish / if only sentences:

1. Wish, wanting change for the present or future with the simple past.
2. Regret with the past perfect.
3. Complaints with would + verb.

Expressing a wish:

Form: If only / I wish + simple past

Example:

If only I knew how to use a computer. (I dont know how to use a computer and I would like to learn how
to use it)

Use:

To express a wish in the present or in the future.

The simple past here is an unreal past.
When you use the verb to be the form is were.
Example:
I wish I were a millionaire!

Expressing regret:

Form:If only / I wish + past perfect

Example:

If only I had woken up early. (I didn't wake up early and I missed my bus.)

Use:

To express a regret.
The action is past.

Complaining:

Form:I wish / if only + would + verb

Example:

I wish you wouldn't arrive so late all the time (I'm annoyed because you always come late and I want you
to arrive on time)

Use: To complain about a behavior that you disapprove.

Expressing impatience, annoyance or dissatisfaction with a present action.